THE head of a unique new volunteering scheme in Ealing said she hopes to encourage people to make a positive difference to others.

Claire Atkinson, 29, is the CEO of Holiday With A Heart, a newly-established venture operating out of Windsor Road in the heart of Ealing.

The scheme works by organising one-day volunteering opportunities for people to add to their existing holiday while abroad.

There are two types of experience available – either a ‘people’ project that helps children who have little or no access to education or one of the ‘planet’ projects that protect and preserve the environment or help animal conservation charities.

Miss Atkinson (pictured), who worked for Bupa for five years, said she wanted to set up something that would help others make a genuine difference in people’s lives while recognising the demands of daily life.

She said: “There are so many people out there that could do something to help but can’t volunteer because of work or family commitments. There are so many people that want to do something to help, and I know that charities would be grateful for their input, especially small charities.”

Miss Atkinson said her company not only encourages people to volunteer while on holiday but to also ensure that volunteers get the support that they need.

The company’s website went live earlier this month and Miss Atkinson said she has been greatly encouraged by the response: “So far people have been really supportive but the main thing now is to spread as much awareness as possible.”

Anyone who visits the website can find suggestions for volunteer schemes. For more information, go online at www.holidaywithaheart.com .